Before Yaakov descended to Egypt, he sent Yehuda there. The Torah relates: “He sent Yehuda ahead of him... to direct him to Goshen.”
Rashi brings the Midrashic explanation: to establish a yeshiva. Yehuda was sent to prepare the spiritual foundation for Yaakov and his sons’ descent to Egypt—he established a yeshiva where the children would study Torah.
The question arises: why was it so important to send Yehuda before Yaakov and his sons arrived? Could they not have set up the yeshiva upon their arrival? Why did Yaakov need to hasten Yehuda to establish the yeshiva beforehand?
Expectations Reflect
In truth, a person’s expectations for their children reflect their own essence and aspirations. This is not always evident in the person themselves, as they may do things out of upbringing or other reasons. We know something is truly important to someone when they want that quality or value to be present in their children.
It is natural for parents to strive and labor for their children to achieve the things that are important to them. Even if they themselves were unable to attain them, their greatest desire is to pass these things on to their children.
Therefore, when we observe what parents emphasize in raising their children, we learn what is truly important to them.
Spiritual and Pure
If parents’ efforts and labor are directed toward their children growing up spiritual, pure, performing goodness and kindness, and connected to Torah and mitzvot, this is proof that Torah, mitzvot, and spiritual growth are truly important to them. This is the essence of their inner desire and passion.
Conversely, if parents’ greatest aspiration is for their children to earn more money, and they are concerned with the child’s profession, whether the child has learned social etiquette, or whether tie and socks match, this demonstrates that material concerns are what truly matter to the parents. Their inner world revolves around this.
The First Action
Yaakov’s first action in preparing for the descent to Egypt reflected what was most important to him: ensuring that the children would study Torah and remain connected to G-d.
Therefore, he sent Yehuda ahead to the land of Goshen, to establish a yeshiva for the children that would be ready to receive the students immediately upon their arrival in Egypt.
Raising sons and daughters according to Torah and mitzvot should be the first priority for every parent amongst the Jewish people. This is the foundation upon which the entire house of Yisrael stands.
Children educated in this spirit are the pillars of our people. Through proper education there is hope that these children will become leaders of the Jewish people and shining examples in the generations to come.
(adapted from the teachings of the Rebbe, Torat Menachem, Volume 25)
